CCA Sparks FAQ
What is CCA Sparks?
CCA Sparks is an annual business pitch competition and mentorship program for undergraduate and graduate students at California College of the Arts, that launched in the Spring of 2020, designed to support students in learning about the creation of new business ventures, and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship at CCA.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for CCA Sparks 2021 has been EXTENDED until March 2nd, 2021 at 11:59pm PST via Submittable. APPLY NOW!
Who is eligible to participate?
CCA undergraduate and graduate students from all disciplines, as well as CCA alumni up to 3 years out, are eligible to apply to participate in CCA Sparks. Students may apply as individuals or as part of a team. Read the full eligibility requirements here.
Who is not eligible?
CCA alumni who graduated more than 3 years prior to the competition are not eligible to participate at this time. Teams of more than five members are not allowed. The focus of CCA Sparks is on pre-seed and early stage business ventures, therefore individuals, teams, or business that have raised more than the equivalent of $25,000 US dollars are not eligible to compete. Read the full eligibility requirements here.
I'm an international student or alumni. Can I participate and compete?
Yes! International students and alumni are eligible to participate, however special considerations may apply. If you have questions about participating as an international student or alumni, please reach out to the Career Development office.
Can I apply as part of a team?
Students may apply as individuals or as teams of up to five people. All team members must meet CCA Sparks’ eligibility requirements. Read the full eligibility requirements here.
Do I have to have an idea for a business in order to apply?
Interested participants will need to apply with a business idea by the application deadline. However, we understand that this idea may evolve or change throughout the course of the program. The focus of CCA Sparks is on pre-seed and early stage business ventures, and the emphasis is on new and original, self-initiated ideas.
We encourage interested participants to attend one of CCA Sparks upcoming informational sessions to learn more. Find a list of dates and register online via Zoom.
I have an idea for a non-profit. Can I participate?
The focus of CCA Sparks is on developing for-profit, sustainable business ventures and ideas. Non-profits are ineligible to compete at this time.